Call for business advice
Agri Innovation Programme
Bespoke support for farmers in West Devon & South Hams looking to maximise their potential through innovation
Applications are currently paused while we process the latest round. We'll be taking applications again from 8th - 31st January, 2024 for the next and final round. Please register your interest early.
We're excited to announce our new programme of innovation support available to farmers in West Devon and South Hams. There is no restriction on farm type or size. If you are looking to maximise your farm’s potential and productivity through regenerative and innovative practices, then we’d love to hear from you.
Backed by Devon County Council, West Devon Borough Council and South Hams District Council, this fully-funded programme will support twenty farms in South Hams and another twenty in West Devon.
Backed by
Eligibility
This support is available completely free to farmers located in the South Hams or West Devon local authority areas that are actively looking to develop and integrate new technology and innovation improvements to the farm business.
If you're unsure of your council area, you can check by putting your postcode into the Council Checker.
CHECK BACK SOON TO APPLY
Applications are currently paused while we process the latest round.
We'll re-open applications again soon.
If you would like to discuss the programme with us, please call 0800 592 872 or complete the contact form further down the page.
What the programme includes
One-to-one Bespoke Support
Up to 30 hours of bespoke one-to-one support for each farm, including:
- Completion of a carbon audit and plan
- Innovation diagnostic and planning activities using the Innovation Toolkit
- Grant application support (where applicable)
- Further tailored support to help drive your identified innovation plans forward.
Specialist Support
Farmers can access additional specialist support so they can implement their business innovation plan. Examples of eligible specialist support include (but are not limited to):
Carbon deep-dives
After you have received your carbon audit, you may want to explore any improvements you could make in on-farm energy solutions, renewable energy options, reduction in emissions and sequestration improvements. A specialist can work with you to establish all the opportunities open to you and the viability of each one.
Soil testing and regenerative farming
Soils are vital in sequestration and reducing the use of synthetic fertilisers, for financial and environmental reasons. Working with an agronomist, you can analyse your soil health, consider regenerative methods, and explore how you can improve carbon sequestration and productivity. Depending on the findings and your needs, you could then access a suitable technology business to support implementation of any plans.
Implementation/trialling of technology
After completing the Farm Innovation Toolkit during the initial 30 hours of support, you may want to explore how you could further utilise technology on your farm. This could involve on-farm trials while working collaboratively with an agricultural technology business, or working with a researcher.
Bid writing/grant application support
Through the programme, you can access a grant consultant or bid writer to support you with funding applications, including UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funding.
Peer-to-Peer Support
During the programme, we will be looking to instigate and assist with forming new peer support groups of like-minded farmers with similar business goals and challenges, to encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing opportunities.
Get in touch
If you would like further information or to discuss whether this programme is suitable for you then please complete the form below and one of our team will be in touch shortly.
